Step 1: Planning

PLAN: Come up with an idea. I sketched mine up on Engineering(grid) paper.
One could use AutoCAD, ProE, Google SketchUp, but sometimes a pen and paper is all you need.

Think ahead: I do not have a vast selection of tools (being jammed into a small townhouse) so I tried to make this as minimal as possible. I was going to use nails or screws but was afraid of fastening into the end grain, which has a tendancy to split the wood, so I just used good old fashion wood glue.

SAFETY: Use your brain.

Step 2: Materials

Wood:
3/8" Dowels - 48" Long (Qty 9)
1"x2"x2' (Qty 4) - You could buy a 1x2x8 and cut to length, but unfortunately I do not have a table saw at home. I bought the precut ones, trick is to find some that are cut square. Just stand them up on end. The ones that fall over are not square.